You Don't Need To Think About Distribution Until The Film Is Done

Wrong!

I hear this question all time - when's a good time to start looking into distribution for my film?

Answer: as early as possible!

In fact, pre-production is the ideal time to start gearing up for distribution of your soon-to-be finished product.

Casting should always be given serious consideration. So many people throw relatives or friends in as their actors. Most often the film winds up suffering for it. Plus, using professional actors saves you time and money in the end because not only do they show up prepared, but they actually show up to work.

In addition to Casting, you can start building your 'campaign' during pre-production. Got a website up yet? Go and build it. Have an idea for artwork in your head? Hire a designer to create it for you.

What about shooting method? Do distributors care about what you shot your film on? You bet they do! And it matters way more than most filmmakers think.

All these things drastically improve your chances at distribution - and you haven't even started making the film yet!